Aerobics vs Strength Training

Spandex versus Steel, who will win?

By Paul "Batman" O'Brien 

B.A., N.C.E.H.S., Dip. Acu., Cert Clin. IMed., Dip. Adv. OBB, Dip. CHM, Pn1, PN-SSR, PN-NCA, M.AFPA., M.C.Th.A.

Aerobics vs Strength Training, which one is better for you? It's a question I get asked all the time. I respond mostly with a question of my own; “If you have to give up one completely which would it be, oxygen or water?" You need oxygen and water to live but they are two separate things. So it is with Aerobics and Strength Training. You need both to be fit – but they are completely different. 

Let’s look at Aerobics. Aerobic means an exercise performed with sufficient oxygen. When you are out for a light jog, taking a dance class, gardening or cycling you are participating in Aerobics. Because of the presence of oxygen Aerobics primarily consumes FAT as its means of energy (after about 15-20 minutes at a steady pace)

The benefits of Aerobics are vast. They include;

  • Improved cardio vascular function
  • Increased metabolism
  • Increased fat loss
  • Increased Energy
  • Lower Blood Pressure
  • Lower risk of developing diabetes and other diseases
  • Increases good cholesterol
  • Decreases Bad cholesterol
  • Increase recovery and performance after exercise
  • Improves digestion


On the other hand Strength Training is primarily anaerobic in nature, meaning it is performed without sufficient oxygen. Lifting weights, High Intensity Training, Resistance based systems and more are all forms of Anaerobic exercise. As such the main source of fuel is SUGAR. Here are some of the small benefits strength training can offer;

  • Builds Lean Muscle Tissue
  • Increase Strength
  • Increases Bone Density
  • Increases Metabolism
  • Increase long term weight loss
  • Reduces cholesterol
  • Makes you look better
  • Increases flexibility
  • Decreases risk of injury
  • Decreases risk of heart disease

It should never be a question of Aerobics vs Strength Training. To get the most out of your body and to really develop your potential you should do both. They have different energy release methods and they have different results that will lead you to your goal.

The best way to approach this is to train intensely in Strength Training and if you’ve read the rest of this site you’ll find I recommend Isometrics (about three times a week for 15-35 minutes).

Of course if you want to take all the guess work out of your Aerobic and Strength Training I highly recommend that you work with me 1-to-1. I can tailor every technique to your specific goals and devise a personalised program designed to achieve the results you want in the time you have. With your own personal video guides to every exercise you’ll get to your goals quickly and efficiently. Learn More About Online Personal Training Here.

Aerobics can be performed daily (except for those days of strength training as it interferes with maximum growth and development). Aerobics should take about 45-60 minutes. To find out more about how far you should push your isometrics check out the articles page. 





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